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Caitlin said she would be nervous as a torchbearer but was looking forward to it

A sports-mad pupil from Havering has spoken of her "excitement" at being chosen to carry the Olympic torch on the day organisers revealed the street-by-street relay route.

Caitlin Hewson, 12, was encouraged to apply because she "always strives to perform to the best of her ability".

The relay starts in London on 21 July and will be carried through key locations.

It can be seen at venues including Kew Gardens and the Newham Festival.

The Year 7 pupil at Gaynes School, who suffers from severe forms of asthma and eczema, is a big sports fan and despite her allergies throws herself into all outdoor sports.

She said: "I was asked to fill in the application forms by my PE teacher Miss Plank and after seeing some of the people nominated on the Olympics website I wasn't sure I'd get picked. They were all really good.

"I was very surprised to be chosen and my mum is really excited for me. My friends and family will be coming to watch me because it's such a big event. I'll be really nervous but I am looking forward to it."

'Deal with it'

Caitlin said her favourite sports were cricket, for which she has been selected for the U13 Essex cricket squad, netball, rowing and rounders.

She said: "In the summer my asthma and eczema can be bad but I just get on and deal with it.

"It's a mystery where I'll actually be running in the torch relay but it's a great feeling."